Used as a building block in the synthesis of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogs for pharmaceutical research, particularly in developing compounds that modulate neurotransmitter activity. Serves as a phosphorus-containing mimic of GABA, making it valuable in studying enzyme inhibition, especially for GABA aminotransferase and other targets in neurological pathways. Applied in the development of prodrugs and bioactive molecules due to its ability to resist metabolic degradation compared to natural amino acids. Also utilized in coordination chemistry for creating metal complexes with potential catalytic or diagnostic properties.